Have you ever wondered how Freemasons greet each other? It's a question that has intrigued many due to the organization's mysterious history. While Freemasonry is no longer a secret society, there are still aspects that remain hidden, such as their unique greetings. Today, we will debunk some myths and reveal the secret codes used by Freemasons to greet their brethren.
Unveiling the Masonic Secret Signals
First and foremost, it's important to note that all the secret greetings are exclusively among Freemasons. If you're not part of the fraternity, don't expect to receive any secret greetings. However, it's relatively easy for Freemasons to recognize each other, as many members proudly display Masonic symbols on various items, such as baseball bats, caps, t-shirts, and gloves. These symbols can also be found on neckties, book covers, and license plates. These subtle details allow brothers from different lodges to identify each other effortlessly.
Although it's not mandatory, some Freemasons purposely make these symbols visible in public to establish connections with members from other lodges. Business cards adorned with Masonic symbols are not uncommon. These small details and symbols may seem insignificant to an outsider, but to a Freemason, they hold deep meaning.
However, there are also certain questions and statements that Freemasons use to recognize each other. These questions carry specific meanings that only brothers can comprehend.
Questions with Hidden Meanings
1. **How old is your grandmother?** This question refers to your lodge number, which should always be given in whole numbers.
2. **I see you have traveled to the east:** For a Freemason, traveling to the east symbolizes the search for knowledge, while traveling to the west signifies the propagation of that knowledge. Your response to this question reflects your status and goals within the lodge.
3. ** are you a traveling man ?** The answer to this question, if you're a Freemason, should be "yes." If asked where you are traveling from, you can mention "west to east" or "east to west."
4. **Have you seen my dog, Hiram?** This question, as well as asking about a small dog with a blue-collar, serves as a way to identify fellow brothers.
It's worth noting that some Freemasons believe these questions are merely part of the mythology and not actual means of identification. Nevertheless, most adults affiliated with Freemasonry disagree and share stories about how these questions have helped them greet their fellow brothers.
The Controversy Surrounding Secret Handshakes
Yes, Freemasons do have secret handshakes, and they have become a subject of controversy. Critics, including anti-Masonic individuals and certain newspapers, claim that these secret codes give Freemasons an advantage in their daily lives, especially when dealing with law enforcement agencies or collaborating with other Masons in the business world. However, there is no concrete evidence to support these claims.
Freemasons assert that such accusations damage their reputation and fuel speculation about their motives. The secret handshake greetings can be categorized but will not be revealed here. These handshakes not only serve as greetings but also indicate the status and degree of a brother within the lodge.
It's important to note that these greetings and handshakes are strictly confined to the lodge. Freemasons do not discuss or engage in any form of secret codes outside the lodge. Therefore, it's highly unlikely that you will witness a handshake greeting in public.
Among Freemasons, these secret greetings are part of their familiar interaction with friends and brothers. They are exclusively shared with selected individuals within the fraternity. The only means of identifying a Freemason in public are certain phrases that serve as greetings and initiate interesting conversations.
So, the next time you come across a Freemason, remember these fascinating insights into their secret greetings and engage in a meaningful conversation that reflects the spirit of brotherly love and self-improvement that Freemasonry embodies.
Freemasons greeting each other
Caption: Freemasons greeting each other with secret codes and handshakes.
